“My role model in life is Anushka,” say Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, the sensational Indian cricketer, doesn't hesitate to openly express his love and admiration, particularly for his wife, the renowned Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma. Even as he competes in the Asia Cup 2023 in Sri Lanka, it's evident that his affection for Anushka transcends any on-field boundaries.

During an event, the host posed a question to Virat Kohli, inquiring about his role model. After taking a moment to ponder, Virat responded with a delighted tone, "My role model in life is Anushka Sharma." The audience reacted with immediate applause, showing their appreciation for Kohli's response. “She gives me a very true & honest picture of who I am, where I stand & how things are. She leads her life with a lot of dignity. Anushka has the strength to do the things right way and stand by it,” Kohli said.

Virat further expressed, “Anushka keeps it real for me. She lives with her head held high, and she’s got the grit to do the right thing, always.” His sentiments are sincere; he truly regards Anushka as his genuine inspiration. She is far more than an arm-candy; she has profoundly influenced his perspectives on life and his own identity.

Kohli first crossed paths with Anushka Sharma during a shoot for a shampoo brand, and their connection has only grown stronger since then. Following their initial encounter, their relationship blossomed, culminating in their marriage in 2017 in a beautiful ceremony held in Italy. The couple welcomed their daughter in January 2021, marking another milestone in their journey together.

Following the pandemic, Virat Kohli experienced a challenging period. His ability to score centuries, a hallmark of his career, diminished, and he encountered difficulties in Test cricket. Subsequent to the T20 World Cup in 2021, he made the decision to step down from his role as the T20I captain. Despite leading his team to test victories in England and South Africa, he relinquished his positions as the Test and ODI captain in January 2022.

Between 2020 and 2022, Virat Kohli's average across all formats was 32.85, representing a decline from his usual standards. However, a turning point came after the 2022 Asia Cup, as Kohli gradually began to regain his previous form. He achieved a significant milestone by securing his first century in over three years, marking his 71st century against Afghanistan. Following this breakthrough, he went on to achieve five more centuries, with two occurring in Test matches and three in ODIs.

In the 2022 T20I World Cup, Virat Kohli emerged as arguably India's most crucial player, securing the top spot as the highest run-scorer in the tournament. He concluded the competition with an impressive tally of 296 runs in 6 innings, maintaining an outstanding average of 98.66.

Kohli's excellent performance continued with Test centuries achieved against Australia and West Indies. He also managed to score centuries against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. With this positive momentum, Kohli is poised to carry his good form into the 2023 ODI World Cup, aiming to contribute significantly to India's success.

The timing of Virat Kohli's affectionate words holds significance. Virat is preparing for a showdown against Pakistan in the Asia Cup on September 2nd, taking place in the picturesque city of Kandy. This match holds exceptional importance for him; it's not just any ordinary cricket game. In the previous year, he secured the Man of the Match title during the India-Pakistan clash in the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia. With stakes soaring, the emotional resilience he attributes to Anushka might very well serve as his hidden advantage and secret weapon for this high-stakes encounter.